‘Moroccan Letters’ Explores Morocco Through the Eyes of 20 Arab Writers

Rabat – The book called the “Moroccan Letters” was reviewed and signed at the 25th International Book Fair (SIEL) in Casablanca.

Enamored by the charm of Morocco and its people, 20 contemporary Arab writers wrote a few pages each in the book, speaking of their experiences in Moroccan cities while also providing glimpses on realities lived in each city.

The 439-page compendium compiled by two renowned Lebanese media figures, Sami Kleib and Faycal Jelloul, holds testimonials from one of the most influential authors in the Arab world, Syrian poet and critic, Adunis.

Testimonials from the late Lebanese-American intellectual, Ameen Rihani, have also found a place within the pages of the book.

A book signing for “The Moroccan Letters” took place on Sunday, February 10, at SIEL in Casablanca. Kleib and Jelloul said at the event that the purpose behind the book was to“rebuild the bridges between Morocco and the Levant, especially as the latter is suffering never-ending tragedies.”

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The literary work “informs about the history and civilization of Morocco that many are not familiar with,” and about “the Moroccan citizen” as seen in the eyes of a Middle Eastern one, the two co-authors said.

The book, published by a Lebanese publishing house, Dar Alfarabi, holds in its many pages “a love for Morocco and its people.”

The annual book fair in Casablanca running from February 7 to 17 under the patronage of King Mohammed VI is witnessing its 25th anniversary.

More than 700 exhibitors from 40 countries are taking part in the event inaugurated by Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani last Thursday.

This year, Spain is the book fair’s guest of honor. The book fair will honor Moroccan writers who write in Spanish and host two round tables under the title “Spanish, more southern.”

The book fair will also pay tribute to Juan Goytisolo and Jose-Miguel Ullan during the conference titled “Claiming the Count Don Julian, an homage to Juan Goytisolo.”